Paraplegia facts for kids

Paraplegia is a type of paralysis that affects the lower half of the body, including the legs. It happens when the spinal cord is damaged. This damage can make it hard or impossible for a person to move their legs or feel sensations below the injury.

A person who has paraplegia is often called a paraplegic. Many people with paraplegia learn to live full and active lives with the help of assistive technology and therapy.

What is Paraplegia?

Paraplegia means that the nerves in the spinal cord are injured. The spinal cord is like a superhighway for messages between your brain and the rest of your body. When this highway is damaged, messages can't get through to the legs and lower body. This means the brain can't tell the legs to move, and the legs can't send feeling messages back to the brain.

How the Spinal Cord Works

Your spinal cord is a long, thin bundle of nerves that runs down your back. It's protected by your vertebrae (the bones that make up your spine). It helps you move, feel, and control many body functions. When the spinal cord is injured, the part of the body below the injury is affected. For paraplegia, the injury is usually in the middle or lower part of the back.

Causes of Paraplegia

Paraplegia can happen for different reasons. The most common cause is a spinal cord injury (SCI).

• Injuries: Accidents like car crashes, falls, sports injuries, or even gunshot wounds can damage the spinal cord.
• Diseases: Some diseases can also cause paraplegia. These include conditions that affect the nerves, like multiple sclerosis, or infections that harm the spinal cord.
• Birth Defects: Sometimes, a person is born with a condition that affects their spinal cord, leading to paraplegia.

Types of Paraplegia

While paraplegia mainly affects the legs and lower body, there are different ways it can show up.

Complete vs. Incomplete Paraplegia

• Complete Paraplegia: This means there is no movement or feeling below the level of the injury. The spinal cord is fully damaged at that point.
• Incomplete Paraplegia: In this case, some movement or feeling remains below the injury. The spinal cord is only partly damaged, and some nerve signals can still get through.

Superior Paraplegia

The term "superior paraplegia" is sometimes used to describe a type of paralysis that affects not only the legs but also the arms and upper body. This is more commonly known as quadriplegia or tetraplegia. It happens when the spinal cord injury is higher up, usually in the neck area.

Living with Paraplegia

People with paraplegia often use wheelchairs to get around. They also learn new ways to do everyday tasks.

• Rehabilitation: After a spinal cord injury, people usually go through physical therapy and occupational therapy. These therapies help them regain strength, learn new skills, and adapt to their new abilities.
• Assistive Devices: Besides wheelchairs, many other tools can help. These might include special equipment for dressing, cooking, or even driving.
• Support: Living with paraplegia can be challenging, but many support groups and communities help people share experiences and tips.

With the right support and determination, people with paraplegia can lead active, fulfilling lives, go to school, work, and enjoy hobbies.

See also

In Spanish: Paraplejía para niños